The speed limit sign may read "maximum 50 km/h," but one look at autumn road conditions and you'll see why you should travel at a slower speed.
Rain-soaked leaves and oil-slick pavement make for a less-than-ideal driving scenarios. That's why Saanich police and ICBC were out on Shelbourne Street Tuesday morning reminding drivers of that very fact.
"Low light, with slick conditions and speed do not mix," said Sgt. Dean Jantzen. "Driving is probably the most complex activity that you'll do today, and as such you need to be focused on the roadway, and you need to be driving appropriate to the conditions."
Police posted a digital message board Tuesday on Shelbourne at San Juan Avenue, warning drivers to slow down. Traffic safety unit officers set themselves up three blocks away with a radar gun, issuing tickets to drivers who didn't take heed of the sign's message to slow down.
Jantzen said that two-strike scenario will be happening all over the municipality in the coming months.
Colleen Woodger, ICBC road safety co-ordinator, says insurance claims go up significantly in the fall and winter, and that's attributable to worsening weather conditions.
"Speed limits are posted for optimal weather. When you get slick roads – rain, ice, sleet – you need to slow down and accommodate the speed to the weather," she said. "Drivers need to be a lot more aware and keep an eye out for those vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists."
Pedestrians and cyclists are also reminded that they must be responsible road users, too.
Jantzen recommends wearing bright clothing or carrying a flashlight, and ensuring you give motorists enough time to stop before stepping into a crosswalk to make yourself more visible to motorists.
kslavin@saanichnews.com